SportsByte’s Connor Guest interviewed Sunderland’s American Football team president Kyle Thirwell in preparation for a new season of University sport.

SB: Why did you join the team?

KT: I was first interested in joining the team as my brother who came to Sunderland uni also played so he convinced me to try it out.

SB: How was last season and what are your hopes for this season?

KT: Last season had highs and lows on and off the field, we had a good social presence and worked hard to make £1154 for several charities throughout the year.

Whereas on the field we had a tough year against tough opposition which proved to be a challenge for us most of the time, as they usually had more elite level players and higher funding. But this season we’re in a league that gives us a real chance to push for playoffs and be rewarded with a winning season.

SB: How much did you know about American football before joining?

KT: Before I joined the team I had little to no knowledge of American football.

SB: What’s the best way to get involved?

KT: The best way to get involved is to come down to training and join in the social, follow the team page.

https://www.facebook.com/SunderlandSpartans/

SB: What is it like to be a Spartan?

KT: The best thing to do at uni and the best decision I’ve ever made. Joining the team means; brotherhood, friends for life and a great way to have a class social life.

The team plays their first game on Wednesday the 3rd of October against York St John. Anyone interested in joining or just coming to watch should come to Ashbrook rugby pitch for 2pm.